New Update on ATPL Application Requirements

Last newsletter, we told you about some of the changes with acquiring an ATPL and we also communicated the March 31, 2026, deadline to apply under the previous regulations. Since then, ATAC and some of its members held calls with Transport Canada to express concerns and gain some clarity on the new Reg’s.  As a result, Transport Canada has made a few amendments to Standard 421.34. The update brings Canada into closer alignment with international aviation standards and clarifies what is expected of future airline captains.

Why the Change?

The revision addresses a longstanding gap between Canadian regulations and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards. Previously, Canada did not require pilots to complete their ATPL skill test as pilot-in-command (PIC) on a two-crew aircraft, a key ICAO expectation. This mismatch raised concerns internationally and prompted questions from foreign regulators about the validity of Canadian ATPLs.

What’s New?

Under the updated standard (effective December 17, 2025), ATPL applicants must now: 

• Demonstrate skills as PIC

• Complete their skill test on an aircraft requiring two pilots

• Show proficiency in real-world airline procedures, including crew coordination and emergency handling

• Pilots who do not meet the new two-crew requirement can still obtain an ATPL—but with a notation: “Skill test does not meet ICAO requirements.”

While this does not limit privileges in Canada, it may create challenges when operating internationally.

Practical Impact for Co-Pilots

First Officers (co-pilots) planning to upgrade should note that: 

• Second-in-command (SIC) skill tests are no longer sufficient

• A PIC proficiency check (PPC) on a two-crew aircraft is now required

• Early application reviews are encouraged to streamline licensing during upgrades

Bottom Line for ATAC Members

These changes mark a shift toward competency-based, airline-relevant certification, ensuring Canadian pilots meet global standards and reinforcing international confidence in Canada’s aviation system.

For 705 operators, an early assessment is the most important step to take along with the SAMRA and SARON exams. Once those exams are written and you have performed a multi-crew PPC, the exams are locked in until you meet the flight time hour requirements.